Uber Eats is the globe’s most popular food delivery service, with over 66 million worldwide users to date. As the demands for online grocery orders and restaurant takeaway skyrocketed since the start of the pandemic, so has Uber Eat’s business and its opportunities for gig worker on the platform.
While Uber Eats continues to grow as a company, more people than ever before have grown curious about how to make profits as an Uber Eats worker—and they should. The introduction and expansion of the global gig economy have changed the money-earning game. There are now more ways to diversify incomeand acquire financial independence than there ever have been. Utilizing a food delivery platform is just one of many ways to do it, which yields obvious benefits for both consumers and providers.
What’s great about choosing Uber Eats is that the application process is fairly easy, and it’s available to residents of almost all major cities. Herein, we bring to light how to become an Uber Eats driver, and disclose some of the best Uber Eats driver tips for those already on the path!
Sign up for Uber Eats – Driver, Biker, Walker
There are a few options for how to deliver food for Uber Eats, whether that’s by foot, bike, or car.
What you’ll need to sign up as an Uber Eats driver is:
- A valid photo ID
- Proof of work eligibility
- And a criminal background check
If you’re interested in signing up as an Uber Eats driver, you’ll have to take extra steps to assure you’re good behind the wheel. Aside from needing to meet all the requirements we just mentioned, you’ll have to provide a valid driver’s license, as well as vehicle registration.
As should be expected, each of these documents must be up to date upon submission. Persons must be 18 or 19 years old (depending on the city) to deliver by foot or bike, and 21 years old to deliver by car. On top of that, it’s an Uber Eats driver requirement to use a motor vehicle that is no more than 20 years old. You should also have 3rd party or higher car insurance.
Once you qualify and get accepted as an Uber Eats worker, getting to work is quite seamless. Of course, you’ll need a mobile device with internet service and the Uber Eats app, but that’s about it. Sign >up in minutes and explore the delivery options in your city.
Uber Eats Payment System
According to Glassdoor, the average Uber Eats driver salary is around $52,000 per year, but you will need need to keep in mind your vehicle expenses and Uber’s standard commission reduction.
How much you make depends on each delivery, which is computed by a simple equation that’s influenced by a few parameters: a fixed pick-up and drop-off fee + distance traveled for the order – Uber’s commission = Earnings for each delivery. Both commission and fees vary slightly depending on your vehicle type and your domiciling city.
Just like any other flexible gig job, you’ll get back however much you put in. So although there’s no clear answer to “how much do Uber Eats drivers make,” your total earning are up to you.
If you live in a busy city or don’t have access to a car, we highly recommend getting an e-bike. They’re a safe and legal alternative that doesn’t require a driver’s license, registration, or hefty servicing costs. Plus, the physical workload is significantly reduced compared to conventional bicycles, which saves time and energy (and of course, money). If you’re looking to invest in an e-bike for your business, you may be eligible for an interest-free business cash advance with Moves to purchase one!
How to Make Money on Uber Eats
Once you’re signed up and ready to ride (or walk), you’ll be wanting to make the most out of your time on the field. Here are some great tips on how to become an Uber Eats driver of the finest caliber.
Location, Location, Location!
Where you work plays a huge role in how much you’ll earn. Put some effort into finding a high-demand location like a strip mall, and hang around for orders. During holidays and big events is the best time to drive Uber Eats. It’s actually better to limit your working area so you conserve resources.
Work During Lunch and Dinner Hours
The next factor worth careful consideration is the time you choose to be on the job. Naturally, you’re more likely to earn more around lunch and dinner time when folks are hungry. Uber Eats incentivizes this with something called Boosts. This is essentially when Uber needs more workers to supply an area with high demand. The payout can increase by as much as 2x during these times, so stay on the lookout.
Just like Uber, Uber Eats also offers Quests for their workers. This adds a self-competitive edge to the delivery experience, offering rewards for achieving certain benchmarks under certain conditions. Some bonuses for these initiatives approach $100! You can find quests in the Promotions Hub tab in the partner app.
Earn Extra with Tips
The last pro tip for successful Uber Eats drivers is to take advantage of tips. Tips go directly into your pocket, untouched – so earning from tips is better than earning any other way. This means making sure customers are completely satisfied with their experience. Double-check that each order is spot-on before starting your drop-off run. Be super polite and communicative with your customers. Last but not least, make sure to grab sufficient napkins, sauces, and utensils for the occasion.
Tips can be paid through the platform or in person, so rest assured when accepting cash in hand.
More Uber Eats Tips and Tricks
- Work While You Study: As it so turns out, working for companies like Uber Eats are some of the best side hustles for college students. Make some deliveries during your downtime and earn some extra cash in between hitting the books.
- Know When to Decline: It’s better not to waste your time on low-paying deliveries. Keep trips short and quick to maximize your profits. You can use the Auto-Accept feature during the slower times, but otherwise, we recommend stern discretion.
- Use the Referral System: Uber Eats grows in popularity by the day. Make the most out of its success by referring friends to the platform by way of a referral code. Both parties can be compensated quite well once the designated milestones are reached.
- Curbside Delivery: Stay in the zone and save time on your orders by taking jobs with curbside delivery. Communicate with your customers 5 minutes before your arrival—hand off the goods and get right back to it.
Now you know how to become an Uber Eats driver along with top tips and tricks to make money on the app, you’re well on your way to owning your career in the gig economy. For more financial tips, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter!
Sally is the Growth Marketer at Moves. With years of experience as an independent contractor, she understands both the fulfillment and challenges that come with the gig economy. Now, she is enthusiastic to help build a collective voice to put gig workers at the forefront and drive meaningful change.
